¶ Flash Meshtastic as a Companion
This is a general guide for setting up a companion that will work with the Upstate Mesh Meshtastic network. It will not cover all device specifics.
¶ Overview
This guide walks you through flashing Meshtastic firmware onto a supported LoRa device using the Meshtastic Web Flasher.
The web flasher is the recommended method for most users. It does not require installing local tools and helps avoid common flashing mistakes.
Antenna Warning
Before powering on your device, ensure that the antenna is connected.
Powering a LoRa radio without an antenna can permanently damage the device.
USB-C Power Warning
If your LoRa device uses USB-C, it is strongly recommended to use a USB-A (standard USB) to USB-C cable when flashing or powering the device.
Some LoRa boards have been damaged when connected with USB-C to USB-C cables, as certain host devices may negotiate and supply more current than the board is designed to handle.
¶ Prerequisites
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- A supported LoRa device
- A USB data cable (not charge-only)
- A computer running Windows, macOS, or Linux
- A modern Chromium-based browser (Chrome, Edge, or Brave)
⚠️ Firefox does not work at this time - The correct antenna for your device’s frequency band (e.g. 915 MHz in the US)
¶ Step 1: Identify Your Device
Determine the exact model of your LoRa board before flashing.
Firmware is device-specific. Selecting the wrong device may prevent the device from booting.
If you are unsure which device you have, stop and ask for help before continuing.
¶ Step 2: Meshtastic Web Flasher
-
Open a Chromium-based browser (Chrome recommended).
-
Navigate to the MeshCore Web Flasher:
-
Connect your device to your computer using USB.
DFU/Flash Mode
You will likely have to put your device in DFU mode or flash mode. In order to flash the firmware. To do this you'll need to locate the instructions for your device model.
- Click
Select Target Device, then slect your device from the list.
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- The latest most stable firmware will automatically be slected for you. Click the
Flashbutton.
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You'll also see the latest change log, scroll to the bottom and click Continue.
- Tick the
Full Erase and Installoption.
Erase Warning
All data on the device will be permanently deleted.This is not required when updating firmware unless specifically instructed.
Since this device is new, erasing it is recommended in this case.
- Click the
Erase Flash and Installbutton.
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Select your device from the list when prompted and click Connect.
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Flashing Warning
Be patient while the device is erased and the new firmware is installed.
Do not unplug or power off the device during this process — doing so may permanently brick the device.
¶ Configure the Companion
Download the MeshCore companion app for your platform:
- Android:
Google Play Store - Apple (iOS/macOS):
App Store - Chrome / Desktop:
Web App
¶ Connect to the Device
- Open the Meshtastic app.
- Using Bluetooth, pair your device with your phone or computer.
- Click the on the device from the node list.
- Click the
Set LoRa Regionbutton under the connected device.
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- Click the
Regiondropdown and selectUnited Statesfrom the list.
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- Click
Save. Your device will reboot.
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🎉 Congratulations!
Your device is now configured and connected to the Meshtastic network.